Why does it cost more to demolish homes in Columbus?

The Columbus and Franklin County land banks are spending an average of $12,000 to demolish vacant houses, about $4,000 more than the statewide average. John Turner, Columbus’ land bank administrator, said asbestos removals add to the demolition price tag in Columbus, which includes survey costs, and that the city’s bidding process complies with both Columbus' procurement program and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's procurement rules for contracting.